Football for toddlers in London: Browse the best classes near you
A couple of us parents on the Loopla team have football-obsessed kids. But some of us have little ones who are yet to find their favourite sport.
As the country's most popular sport among kids (1), football is the most obvious one to try first. So recently we were asking: what's the best age to introduce a toddler to the beautiful game?
Many would say, if they can confidently walk, there's no need to wait. In London, you can find toddler football classes that welcome toddlers as young as 18 months.
Of course, these sessions will look a bit different to your typical Sunday league football training.
Will my toddler enjoy football classes?
If your little one loves playing and running around with you, there's a good chance they'll enjoy toddler football classes.
Football for toddlers is often built around games that sneak in kicking and dribbling, rather than drills.
In these sessions, you can also expect to find pint-sized balls and colourful cones. You may find yourself joining in, too, as some toddler football classes we list require parents to put on their running shoes.
Over time, though, classes gently encourage toddlers to play football without a parent beside them. Along the way, they build confidence, attention and social skills.
If this sounds like something you'd like your toddler to try, scroll down to browse classes across London. Several offer free trials, so you can find out before signing up.
Looking for a particular age group or London area? We have another page built around football training for older kids. Otherwise, search here to find the best toddler football classes near you.
Toddler football classes you can book right now:
First Touch Sports Sunday Football 3-4 Years
At First Touch FC, our Sunday Football sessions help children aged 3–4 grow as football players and as confident individuals. Held in the beautiful surroundings of Hyde Park, London, our programmes combine professional coaching with a fun, inclusive atmosphere that supports learning and development at every level. About First Touch Sports For over 19 years, First Touch has been dedicated to helping kids grow into confident, happy players. Based in Hyde Park, London, we offer two distinct ways to play: Sunday Sessions (Ages 3–13): Fun, weekly football coaching to build skills and confidence. Holiday Camps (Ages 5–14): Action-packed multisport camps designed to keep kids active during the school break. Whether it’s a weekly kickabout or a full holiday camp experience, we create a safe environment where every child can thrive
Sun 11 Oct - Sun 25 Oct
09:00 - 11:00
Football • 3-4 years • From £18.00
W2, Old Football Pitches Hyde Park
Little Kicks SE London, 1.5-2.5yrs
Little Kicks is the perfect introduction to the fun world of Little Kickers and is suitable for children aged 1.5yrs - 2.5yrs old. Children are introduced to the basics of football, dribbling, striking, goal scoring etc in a play-oriented yet structured format, using child-friendly but realistic football equipment. Each child is given the opportunity to work within their ability level but taught in a group environment. Classes also provide a fantastic opportunity for you to assist in your child’s early education, helping them develop physically as well as improving cognitive and social skills. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sun 11 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
08:10 - 09:55
Football • 2 years • £10.80
SE1, Haberdashers' Borough Academy Sports Centre
Junior Kickers SE London, 2.5-3.5 years
Our Junior Kickers class is suitable for children aged 2.5yrs - 3.5yrs Junior Kickers builds on the foundation skills and football basics learnt in Little Kicks. Using a familiar structure, children are challenged both physically and mentally. For those children who started in Little Kicks, independent participation is encouraged. If your child has just joined us you may need to stay close by for a few weeks, but the ultimate goal is for children to be able to participate on their own. The format remains learning through play and because children are allowed to work to their own ability, it is suitable for complete beginners. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sun 11 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
10:05 - 11:50
Football • 2-3 years • £10.80
SE1, Haberdashers' Borough Academy Sports Centre
Mighty Kickers SE London, 3.5-5 yrs
Our Mighty Kickers classes are suitable for children aged 3.5yrs - 5yrs old. Mighty Kickers are confident with boundless energy and this is catered for in the lesson plans. Our games are fast-paced and increasingly football-focused, with fun still at the heart, meaning that even new starters easily pick them up. Children begin to understand the importance of team play and matches are gradually introduced. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sun 11 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
11:00 - 12:45
Football • 3-5 years • £10.80
SE1, Haberdashers' Borough Academy Sports Centre
Little Kicks SE London, 1.5-2.5yrs
Little Kicks is the perfect introduction to the fun world of Little Kickers and is suitable for children aged 1.5yrs - 2.5yrs old. Children are introduced to the basics of football, dribbling, striking, goal scoring etc in a play-oriented yet structured format, using child-friendly but realistic football equipment. Each child is given the opportunity to work within their ability level but taught in a group environment. Classes also provide a fantastic opportunity for you to assist in your child’s early education, helping them develop physically as well as improving cognitive and social skills. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sat 10 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
08:10 - 09:55
Football • 2 years • £10.80
SW11, Harris Academy Battersea (From 18/07/2026)
Junior Kickers SE London, 2.5-3.5 years
Our Junior Kickers class is suitable for children aged 2.5yrs - 3.5yrs Junior Kickers builds on the foundation skills and football basics learnt in Little Kicks. Using a familiar structure, children are challenged both physically and mentally. For those children who started in Little Kicks, independent participation is encouraged. If your child has just joined us you may need to stay close by for a few weeks, but the ultimate goal is for children to be able to participate on their own. The format remains learning through play and because children are allowed to work to their own ability, it is suitable for complete beginners. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sat 10 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
09:05 - 10:50
Football • 2-3 years • £10.80
SW11, Harris Academy Battersea (From 18/07/2026)
Mighty Kickers SE London, 3.5-5 yrs
Our Mighty Kickers classes are suitable for children aged 3.5yrs - 5yrs old. Mighty Kickers are confident with boundless energy and this is catered for in the lesson plans. Our games are fast-paced and increasingly football-focused, with fun still at the heart, meaning that even new starters easily pick them up. Children begin to understand the importance of team play and matches are gradually introduced. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sat 10 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
10:00 - 11:45
Football • 3-5 years • £10.80
SW11, Harris Academy Battersea (From 18/07/2026)
Little Kicks SE London, 1.5-2.5yrs
Little Kicks is the perfect introduction to the fun world of Little Kickers and is suitable for children aged 1.5yrs - 2.5yrs old. Children are introduced to the basics of football, dribbling, striking, goal scoring etc in a play-oriented yet structured format, using child-friendly but realistic football equipment. Each child is given the opportunity to work within their ability level but taught in a group environment. Classes also provide a fantastic opportunity for you to assist in your child’s early education, helping them develop physically as well as improving cognitive and social skills. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sat 10 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
08:40 - 10:25
Football • 2 years • £10.80
SE5, Ark All Saints Academy
Junior Kickers SE London, 2.5-3.5 years
Our Junior Kickers class is suitable for children aged 2.5yrs - 3.5yrs Junior Kickers builds on the foundation skills and football basics learnt in Little Kicks. Using a familiar structure, children are challenged both physically and mentally. For those children who started in Little Kicks, independent participation is encouraged. If your child has just joined us you may need to stay close by for a few weeks, but the ultimate goal is for children to be able to participate on their own. The format remains learning through play and because children are allowed to work to their own ability, it is suitable for complete beginners. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sat 10 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
07:45 - 09:30
Football • 2-3 years • Free trial
SE5, Ark All Saints Academy
Mighty Kickers SE London, 3.5-5 yrs
Our Mighty Kickers classes are suitable for children aged 3.5yrs - 5yrs old. Mighty Kickers are confident with boundless energy and this is catered for in the lesson plans. Our games are fast-paced and increasingly football-focused, with fun still at the heart, meaning that even new starters easily pick them up. Children begin to understand the importance of team play and matches are gradually introduced. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sat 10 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
07:45 - 09:30
Football • 3-5 years • Free trial
SE5, Ark All Saints Academy
Little Kicks SE London, 1.5-2.5yrs
Little Kicks is the perfect introduction to the fun world of Little Kickers and is suitable for children aged 1.5yrs - 2.5yrs old. Children are introduced to the basics of football, dribbling, striking, goal scoring etc in a play-oriented yet structured format, using child-friendly but realistic football equipment. Each child is given the opportunity to work within their ability level but taught in a group environment. Classes also provide a fantastic opportunity for you to assist in your child’s early education, helping them develop physically as well as improving cognitive and social skills. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sat 10 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
08:00 - 09:45
Football • 2 years • £10.80
SE1, Oxford and Bermondsey Club
Junior Kickers SE London, 2.5-3.5 years
Our Junior Kickers class is suitable for children aged 2.5yrs - 3.5yrs Junior Kickers builds on the foundation skills and football basics learnt in Little Kicks. Using a familiar structure, children are challenged both physically and mentally. For those children who started in Little Kicks, independent participation is encouraged. If your child has just joined us you may need to stay close by for a few weeks, but the ultimate goal is for children to be able to participate on their own. The format remains learning through play and because children are allowed to work to their own ability, it is suitable for complete beginners. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sat 10 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
09:00 - 10:45
Football • 2-3 years • £10.80
SE1, Oxford and Bermondsey Club
Mighty Kickers SE London, 3.5-5 yrs
Our Mighty Kickers classes are suitable for children aged 3.5yrs - 5yrs old. Mighty Kickers are confident with boundless energy and this is catered for in the lesson plans. Our games are fast-paced and increasingly football-focused, with fun still at the heart, meaning that even new starters easily pick them up. Children begin to understand the importance of team play and matches are gradually introduced. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sat 10 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
10:00 - 11:45
Football • 3-5 years • £10.80
SE1, Oxford and Bermondsey Club
Little Kicks
Little Kicks is the perfect introduction to the fun world of Little Kickers and is suitable for children aged 1.5yrs - 2.5yrs old. Children are introduced to the basics of football, dribbling, striking, goal scoring etc. in a play-oriented yet structured format, using child-friendly but realistic football equipment. Each child is given the opportunity to work within their ability level but taught in a group environment. Classes also provide a fantastic opportunity for you to assist in your child’s early education, helping them develop physically as well as improving cognitive and social skills. Key Features: • Parent participation required • 45-minute class • Weekly classes • One coach with up to 12 children OR two coaches for 13 to 16 children • Each child receives a football kit • 4 unique badges to collect across the Little Kicks programme Learning to Learn The main focus of Little Kicks is what we call ‘learning to learn’. Our coaches are taught specific techniques that enable children to get the most out of our classes. We believe that play is one of the greatest development tools and when combined with repetition and structure, ensures effective learning. Classes involve a number of games that require parents to put on their running shoes and get actively involved in the session. However, some games are specifically targeted at developing independence. These transition games mean children as young as two will be able to play independently of their parent or guardian. FUNdamentals & Badge Certification Little Kicks teaches the fundamentals of football in a fun learning environment through a series of games using our tried and tested structure. Our Little Kicks receive quarterly badges which highlight the key physical, cognitive and football skills they are exposed to in our programme. Our Little Kickers absolutely love showing their badges to their teammates and family! The stages of development below outline our expectations for this age group: Social, Emotional & Cognitive • Short attention span, erratic participation. • Needs assistance throughout session. • At times will be frustrated at lack of comprehension of sessions. • Lacks awareness of others. Physical • May struggle with balance and co-ordination. • Introduced to different types of movement (running, jumping etc). • Finds balancing difficult. Football Specific • Capable of basic, one paced kicking. • Can maintain the stop position with help. • Frequently unable to dribble (the ball!). • Quickly learns to enjoy scoring goals. The primary goal is to settle children into the structure of the session, improve their confidence and attention, develop their basic motor skills and develop a good kicking technique. Price per month from £43.50 - depending on location (*plus a one off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00)
Sun 11 Oct - Wed 30 Dec
09:10 - 10:55
Football • 1-2 years • £10.00
W2, Little Venice Sports Centre
Mighty Kickers
Mighty Kickers are confident with boundless energy and this is catered for in the lesson plans. Our games are fast-paced and increasingly football focused, with fun still at the heart, meaning that even new starters easily pick them up. Children begin to understand the importance of team play and matches are gradually introduced. Key Features: • Children play independently of their parent/guardian • 45-minute class • Weekly classes • Two coaches for up to 18 children (max) • Each new starter receives a football kit • 6 unique badges to collect across the Mighty Kickers programme Play, Practice & Understanding Mighty Kickers classes incorporate our rounded learning approach of play, practice and understanding. Play is the motivator and promotes continued and repeated practice. This disguised learning in itself is a powerful tool, however we believe in not only teaching the children how to perform the skills, but also to understand why and where to use the skill in the real world. This transcends all six areas of our curriculum: • Personal, social & emotional development, • Communication, language & literacy, • Mathematical development, • Knowledge & understanding of the World, • Physical development, • Creative development. FUNdamentals & Badge Certification Mighty Kickers teaches the fundamentals of football in a fun learning environment through a series of games using our tried and tested structure. Our Mighty Kickers receive quarterly badges which highlight the key physical, cognitive and football skills they are exposed to in our programme. Our Little Kickers absolutely love showing their badges to their teammates and family! The stages of development below outline our expectations for this age group: Social, Emotional & Cognitive • Good peer interaction and participation in class. • Develops a strong sense of identity within the group. • Understands basic concepts of team play. • Awareness of surroundings improves. • Actively involved in creative play. • Confident to play, think and visually assess during a game situation. Physical • Emphasis on warm up / cool down and stretching improves physical fitness. • Children are aware of themselves in the environment. • Basic ability to travel with the ball where they choose and how they choose. • Children demonstrate understanding of control and can exercise control in their movements. Football Specific • Able to keep the ball relatively close to the body while moving. • Develops good directional dribbling skills and strong striking skills. • Can stop a slow moving ball. • Can start to volley / half volley. • Will be able to hold the stop position and move the ball with their sole. Things start to get very exciting at the Mighty Kickers age group. This is where all the skills learnt to date are transfer Price per month from £43.50 - depending on location (*plus a one off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00)
Sun 11 Oct - Wed 30 Dec
08:15 - 10:00
Football • 3-5 years • £10.00
W2, Little Venice Sports Centre
Junior Kickers
Junior Kickers builds on the foundation skills and football basics learnt in Little Kicks. Using a familiar structure, children are challenged both physically and mentally. For those children who started in Little Kicks, independent participation is encouraged. If your child has just joined us you may need to stay close-by for a few weeks, but the ultimate goal is for children to be able to participate on their own. The format remains learning through play and because children are allowed to work to their own ability, it is suitable for complete beginners. Key Features: • Children are encouraged to play independently of the parent/guardian • 45-minute class • Weekly classes • Two coaches for up to 18 children (max) • Each new starter receives a football kit • 4 unique badges to collect across the Junior Kickers programme Disguised Learning Through Play Play and games are at the heart of everything we do. Our games cleverly disguise the learning aspect so the children just think they are playing. The more the children enjoy the games, the more they participate. This enjoyment leads to greater confidence, which in turn leads to self-initiated participation and independent play. FUNdamentals & Badge Certification Junior Kickers teaches the fundamentals of football in a fun learning environment through a series of games using our tried and tested structure. Our Junior Kickers receive quarterly badges which highlight the key physical, cognitive and football skills they are exposed to in our programme. Our Little Kickers absolutely love showing their badges to their teammates and family! The stages of development below outline our expectations for this age group: Social, Emotional & Cognitive • Comprehension of activities and attention increases. • Confidence improves leading to independent participation. • Awareness of surroundings is still poor and will require strong direction from coaches. Physical • Improved body control. • Stamina and speed improves. • Coaches implement more complicated movements at varying heights and speeds Football Specific • Starts to develop a range of kicking. • Competent directional kicking. • Slow directional dribbling. • Is able to hold the stop position, unaided, for a short period of time. Price per month from £43.50 - depending on location (*plus a one off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00)
Sun 11 Oct - Wed 30 Dec
09:10 - 10:55
Football • 2-3 years • £10.00
W2, Little Venice Sports Centre
Little Kicks SE London, 1.5-2.5yrs
Little Kicks is the perfect introduction to the fun world of Little Kickers and is suitable for children aged 1.5yrs - 2.5yrs old. Children are introduced to the basics of football, dribbling, striking, goal scoring etc in a play-oriented yet structured format, using child-friendly but realistic football equipment. Each child is given the opportunity to work within their ability level but taught in a group environment. Classes also provide a fantastic opportunity for you to assist in your child’s early education, helping them develop physically as well as improving cognitive and social skills. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sun 11 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
08:00 - 09:45
Football • 2 years • £10.80
SE1, Downside Fisher Youth Club
Junior Kickers SE London, 2.5-3.5 years
Our Junior Kickers class is suitable for children aged 2.5yrs - 3.5yrs Junior Kickers builds on the foundation skills and football basics learnt in Little Kicks. Using a familiar structure, children are challenged both physically and mentally. For those children who started in Little Kicks, independent participation is encouraged. If your child has just joined us you may need to stay close by for a few weeks, but the ultimate goal is for children to be able to participate on their own. The format remains learning through play and because children are allowed to work to their own ability, it is suitable for complete beginners. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sun 11 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
09:00 - 10:45
Football • 2-3 years • £10.80
SE1, Downside Fisher Youth Club
Mighty Kickers SE London, 3.5-5 yrs
Our Mighty Kickers classes are suitable for children aged 3.5yrs - 5yrs old. Mighty Kickers are confident with boundless energy and this is catered for in the lesson plans. Our games are fast-paced and increasingly football-focused, with fun still at the heart, meaning that even new starters easily pick them up. Children begin to understand the importance of team play and matches are gradually introduced. Classes are £46.80 per month and run on a rolling monthly billing cycle (*plus a one-off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00).
Sun 11 Oct - Sun 28 Feb
10:00 - 11:45
Football • 3-5 years • £10.80
SE1, Downside Fisher Youth Club
Runners, Kiddikicks Football
This Runners class at kiddikicks is suitable for children aged 2-3 years old. Our aim at kiddikicks is simple. To provide the very best kids' football coaching for toddlers and children in London. We recognise coaching football for children under the age of eleven presents its own unique set of challenges primarily due to developmental immaturity and growth spurts, short attention spans, less developed muscles and the UK weather! The Kiddikicks Training Method is based on realising real skills in a super-fun environment for all age groups. The childrens football training we offer engages children's imaginations and bodies, the foundation of which is enjoyment for all. We offer football for children in two distinct seasons - indoor and outdoor, all year round in 3 to 4 terms per year. At kiddikicks parents are important too! You have to be there but you can be active too - kiddikicks encourages parent participation in their toddler's football sessions and lots of encouragement from the sidelines for older players. About kiddikicks Through structured football fun we've developed a range of sports and social skills to provide a great experience for your child and satisfying for you to watch. Our goal is to introduce toddlers and children to sport through football using our unique, fun-learning techniques developing real football and other sports skills in a safe and creative environment that benefits every child. Our goal for school age children is to introduce match play with the emphasis on free thinking and movement, skills and ball control. • To introduce kids from 18 months to 11 years of age to sport through football using the Kiddikicks method. • Coaching real football skills and generic sports skills in a fun, pressure free environment • Promoting participation and young citizenship at home and in the community • Communicating positive attitudes to ourselves and others • Enhancing health and happiness through a healthy lifestyle
Sun 11 Oct - Sun 13 Dec
09:30 - 11:15
Football • 2-3 years • £14.40
NW1, Regents Park
Racers, Kiddikicks Football
This Racers class at kiddikicks is suitable for children aged 3-5 years old. Our aim at kiddikicks is simple. To provide the very best kids' football coaching for toddlers and children in London. We recognise coaching football for children under the age of eleven presents its own unique set of challenges primarily due to developmental immaturity and growth spurts, short attention spans, less developed muscles and the UK weather! The Kiddikicks Training Method is based on realising real skills in a super-fun environment for all age groups. The childrens football training we offer engages children's imaginations and bodies, the foundation of which is enjoyment for all. We offer football for children in two distinct seasons - indoor and outdoor, all year round in 3 to 4 terms per year. At kiddikicks parents are important too! You have to be there but you can be active too - kiddikicks encourages parent participation in their toddler's football sessions and lots of encouragement from the sidelines for older players. About kiddikicks Through structured football fun we've developed a range of sports and social skills to provide a great experience for your child and satisfying for you to watch. Our goal is to introduce toddlers and children to sport through football using our unique, fun-learning techniques developing real football and other sports skills in a safe and creative environment that benefits every child. Our goal for school age children is to introduce match play with the emphasis on free thinking and movement, skills and ball control. • To introduce kids from 18 months to 11 years of age to sport through football using the Kiddikicks method. • Coaching real football skills and generic sports skills in a fun, pressure free environment • Promoting participation and young citizenship at home and in the community • Communicating positive attitudes to ourselves and others • Enhancing health and happiness through a healthy lifestyle
Sun 11 Oct - Sun 13 Dec
10:15 - 12:00
Football • 3-5 years • £14.40
NW1, Regents Park
Nippers, Kiddikicks Football
This Nippers class at kiddikicks is suitable for children aged 18 months - 2.5years old. Our aim at kiddikicks is simple. To provide the very best kids' football coaching for toddlers and children in London. We recognise coaching football for children under the age of eleven presents its own unique set of challenges primarily due to developmental immaturity and growth spurts, short attention spans, less developed muscles and the UK weather! The Kiddikicks Training Method is based on realising real skills in a super-fun environment for all age groups. The childrens football training we offer engages children's imaginations and bodies, the foundation of which is enjoyment for all. We offer football for children in two distinct seasons - indoor and outdoor, all year round in 3 to 4 terms per year. At kiddikicks parents are important too! You have to be there but you can be active too - kiddikicks encourages parent participation in their toddler's football sessions and lots of encouragement from the sidelines for older players. About kiddikicks Through structured football fun we've developed a range of sports and social skills to provide a great experience for your child and satisfying for you to watch. Our goal is to introduce toddlers and children to sport through football using our unique, fun-learning techniques developing real football and other sports skills in a safe and creative environment that benefits every child. Our goal for school age children is to introduce match play with the emphasis on free thinking and movement, skills and ball control. • To introduce kids from 18 months to 11 years of age to sport through football using the Kiddikicks method. • Coaching real football skills and generic sports skills in a fun, pressure free environment • Promoting participation and young citizenship at home and in the community • Communicating positive attitudes to ourselves and others • Enhancing health and happiness through a healthy lifestyle
Sun 11 Oct - Sun 13 Dec
09:00 - 10:30
Football • 1-2 years • £14.40
NW1, Regents Park
Little Kicks
Little Kicks is the perfect introduction to the fun world of Little Kickers and is suitable for children aged 1.5yrs - 2.5yrs old. Children are introduced to the basics of football, dribbling, striking, goal scoring etc. in a play-oriented yet structured format, using child-friendly but realistic football equipment. Each child is given the opportunity to work within their ability level but taught in a group environment. Classes also provide a fantastic opportunity for you to assist in your child’s early education, helping them develop physically as well as improving cognitive and social skills. Key Features: • Parent participation required • 45-minute class • Weekly classes • One coach with up to 12 children OR two coaches for 13 to 16 children • Each child receives a football kit • 4 unique badges to collect across the Little Kicks programme Learning to Learn The main focus of Little Kicks is what we call ‘learning to learn’. Our coaches are taught specific techniques that enable children to get the most out of our classes. We believe that play is one of the greatest development tools and when combined with repetition and structure, ensures effective learning. Classes involve a number of games that require parents to put on their running shoes and get actively involved in the session. However, some games are specifically targeted at developing independence. These transition games mean children as young as two will be able to play independently of their parent or guardian. FUNdamentals & Badge Certification Little Kicks teaches the fundamentals of football in a fun learning environment through a series of games using our tried and tested structure. Our Little Kicks receive quarterly badges which highlight the key physical, cognitive and football skills they are exposed to in our programme. Our Little Kickers absolutely love showing their badges to their teammates and family! The stages of development below outline our expectations for this age group: Social, Emotional & Cognitive • Short attention span, erratic participation. • Needs assistance throughout session. • At times will be frustrated at lack of comprehension of sessions. • Lacks awareness of others. Physical • May struggle with balance and co-ordination. • Introduced to different types of movement (running, jumping etc). • Finds balancing difficult. Football Specific • Capable of basic, one paced kicking. • Can maintain the stop position with help. • Frequently unable to dribble (the ball!). • Quickly learns to enjoy scoring goals. The primary goal is to settle children into the structure of the session, improve their confidence and attention, develop their basic motor skills and develop a good kicking technique. Price per month from £43.50 - depending on location (*plus a one off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00)
Fri 9 Oct - Wed 30 Dec
08:25 - 10:10
Football • 1-2 years • £10.00
NW8, Church of Our Lady
Mighty Kickers
Mighty Kickers are confident with boundless energy and this is catered for in the lesson plans. Our games are fast-paced and increasingly football focused, with fun still at the heart, meaning that even new starters easily pick them up. Children begin to understand the importance of team play and matches are gradually introduced. Key Features: • Children play independently of their parent/guardian • 45-minute class • Weekly classes • Two coaches for up to 18 children (max) • Each new starter receives a football kit • 6 unique badges to collect across the Mighty Kickers programme Play, Practice & Understanding Mighty Kickers classes incorporate our rounded learning approach of play, practice and understanding. Play is the motivator and promotes continued and repeated practice. This disguised learning in itself is a powerful tool, however we believe in not only teaching the children how to perform the skills, but also to understand why and where to use the skill in the real world. This transcends all six areas of our curriculum: • Personal, social & emotional development, • Communication, language & literacy, • Mathematical development, • Knowledge & understanding of the World, • Physical development, • Creative development. FUNdamentals & Badge Certification Mighty Kickers teaches the fundamentals of football in a fun learning environment through a series of games using our tried and tested structure. Our Mighty Kickers receive quarterly badges which highlight the key physical, cognitive and football skills they are exposed to in our programme. Our Little Kickers absolutely love showing their badges to their teammates and family! The stages of development below outline our expectations for this age group: Social, Emotional & Cognitive • Good peer interaction and participation in class. • Develops a strong sense of identity within the group. • Understands basic concepts of team play. • Awareness of surroundings improves. • Actively involved in creative play. • Confident to play, think and visually assess during a game situation. Physical • Emphasis on warm up / cool down and stretching improves physical fitness. • Children are aware of themselves in the environment. • Basic ability to travel with the ball where they choose and how they choose. • Children demonstrate understanding of control and can exercise control in their movements. Football Specific • Able to keep the ball relatively close to the body while moving. • Develops good directional dribbling skills and strong striking skills. • Can stop a slow moving ball. • Can start to volley / half volley. • Will be able to hold the stop position and move the ball with their sole. Things start to get very exciting at the Mighty Kickers age group. This is where all the skills learnt to date are transfer Price per month from £43.50 - depending on location (*plus a one off registration fee which includes your child’s shirt and shorts of £25.00)
Wed 14 Oct - Wed 30 Dec
15:35 - 17:20
Football • 3-5 years • £10.00
NW8, Church of Our Lady
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Finding the right football class for your toddler
You can use the Loopla search tool to filter toddler football classes by age and location.
Next, check the age band. Toddler football classes are often split into narrow groups, like 18 months to two and a half. This helps coaches cater to your child's stage. Many providers run a class for each band, so your toddler can move up as they grow.
It's also worth thinking about how independent your little one is. If they're likely to cling to your leg, start with a football class where parents join in. Older toddler groups gently encourage children to play on their own.
Then consider timing. Lots of the classes we list run early on weekend mornings, so it's worth planning around naps. Check how you'll pay, too. Some classes bill monthly on a rolling basis, plus a one-off fee for kit.
To find more fun activities, see our guide to things to do with toddlers in London.
References:
- Share of children participating in sports in the last week in England in 2023/24, by activity - Statista
- Physical activity guidelines for children (under 5 years) - NHS
FAQ: How to find toddler football classes near you
What are the best toddler football classes in London?
The best football classes for toddlers cater to the pre-school age group. These mostly focus on introducing little ones to the sport. They tend to involve friendly, patient coaches and interesting equipment like pint-sized footballs and colourful cones.
Little Kickers are said to be the world's biggest football programme for pre-school kids. They run classes in South East London and North London.
Can a 2-year-old play football?
A 2-year-old can take part in football training. They may not be able to play a full football game. But classes for this age group will often teach them fundamentals like kicking and dribbling.
How do I get my 2-year-old into football?
To get your 2-year-old interested in football, start by playing simple games together. These could involve kicking a soft ball around the house or garden. Remember to make it enjoyable with lots of cheering and encouragement.
Which sport is best for a 2 year old?
The best sport for a 2 year old is one that feels like play. Football, tennis and dance all have London classes that welcome 2 year olds. The NHS recommends toddlers are active for at least three hours a day. (2) So a weekly class is a fun way to add to that. We'd pick whichever one your toddler gets most excited about.
Is 3 a good age to start football?
Yes, 3 is a good age to start football. Some classes start encouraging kids to take part without a parent beside them. Little Kickers' Junior Kickers classes, for example, aim for children to play on their own, though new joiners may need a parent nearby for the first few weeks. At Little Kickers, matches are then gradually introduced from around three and a half.
How can I find the best toddler football classes near me?
You can find the best toddler football classes near you using Loopla's search tool. Filter by age and area to see the closest options. Each listing shows the ages, dates and price, plus what the class involves. Some classes also offer a free trial, so your toddler can try one before you sign up.
